Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Riki Ellison () - 1983 NFL Draft Pick #117 by SF

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Riki Ellison (1983 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Riki Ellison
• Position: Linebacker
• College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview:

Riki Ellison was regarded as one of the top linebacker prospects in the 1983 NFL Draft, showcasing a blend of speed, agility, and football intelligence during his time at USC. His performance in college was marked by consistent tackling, strong leadership qualities, and a knack for playmaking.

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Ellison possessed exceptional lateral movement and acceleration, making him a formidable presence on the field.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his solid tackling technique, he rarely missed tackles and was effective in stopping ball carriers.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game allowed him to read plays well and make quick decisions, contributing to his effectiveness as a linebacker.
• Leadership: Ellison exhibited leadership qualities that made him a respected figure both on and off the field, often motivating his teammates.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 6'1" and around 225 pounds, some analysts questioned whether he had the ideal size for an NFL linebacker, particularly in a league that often favors larger players.
• Injury History: There were concerns regarding his durability, as he had faced some minor injuries during his college career that could affect his transition to the NFL.

Projected Draft Position:

Most analysts projected Riki Ellison to be selected in the second round of the 1983 NFL Draft, with some believing he could sneak into the late first round depending on team needs.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, Riki Ellison was considered a solid linebacker prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of speed, intelligence, and tackling ability made him a desirable choice for teams looking to bolster their defensive units.